Creation and Purpose

In 2017, mental health advocate Sarah Fader launched the viral hashtag #ThislsWhatAnxietyFeelsLike to provide individuals with a platform to share their personal experiences with anxiety, fostering understanding and reducing stigma.

Global Engagement

The hashtag rapidly gained traction worldwide, with thousands of people contributing their stories and insight creating a sense of community and solidarity among those affected by anxiety.

Media Coverage

The movement garnered attention from major media outlets, including The New York Times, Psychology Today, The Huffington Post, Cosmopolitan, and Refinery29, amplifying its reach and impact.

Academic Recognition

The hashtag’s influence extended into academic research, with studies analyzing the shared narratives to better understand the interpersonal effects of anxiety and its portrayal on social media.

Published Work

Building on the hashtag’s success, Sarah Fader authored a book titled “#ThisisWhatAnxietyFeelsLike: When You
Think Everyone Hates You & So Much More,” featuring illustrations by Michelle Hammer. This work visually
represents the experiences shared through the hashtag, further promoting awareness and empathy.